Meaning: The quote "This is the very womb and bed of enormity" is attributed to the English playwright and poet Ben Jonson. Ben Jonson was a prominent figure in the literary scene of the late 16th and early 17th centuries, and he is best known for his plays, poetry, and literary criticism. This particular quote is taken from Jonson's play "Sejanus, His Fall," which was first performed in 1603. The play is a historical tragedy that focuses on the rise and fall of Lucius Aelius Sejanus, a Roman general and confidant of the emperor Tiberius.

In the context of the play, the quote serves as a powerful and evocative expression of the idea that the environment or setting in which something originates can be the source of great evil or wrongdoing. The term "enormity" refers to something that is outrageous, wicked, or monstrous in nature. When Jonson refers to "the very womb and bed of enormity," he is suggesting that the origins of such evil deeds can be found in the very fabric of society or in the influential figures who shape it.

The quote can be interpreted as a commentary on the corrupting influence of power and ambition, as well as a reflection on the darker aspects of human nature. It suggests that the seeds of enormity are sown in the very foundations of society, and that they can grow and flourish in certain environments. Jonson's choice of language, particularly the use of "womb and bed," evokes a sense of birth and nurture, implying that enormity is not a random occurrence, but rather something that is nurtured and cultivated.

From a literary perspective, the quote showcases Jonson's skill in crafting evocative and memorable language. Jonson was known for his mastery of language and his ability to convey complex ideas and emotions through his writing. In "Sejanus, His Fall," he employs rich, vivid imagery and powerful language to convey the themes of ambition, betrayal, and the corrupting nature of power.

Beyond its literary significance, the quote "This is the very womb and bed of enormity" has resonated with audiences and scholars alike due to its timeless relevance. The idea that evil deeds can have deep-seated roots in society, and that they can be nurtured and perpetuated by the very structures and systems that should uphold justice and morality, is a theme that continues to be explored in literature and in discussions of ethics and human behavior.

In conclusion, Ben Jonson's quote "This is the very womb and bed of enormity" is a powerful and thought-provoking expression of the idea that the origins of great evil can be found in the very fabric of society. Through its evocative language and rich imagery, the quote encapsulates the themes of corruption, ambition, and the darker aspects of human nature that are prevalent in Jonson's play "Sejanus, His Fall." It serves as a testament to Jonson's skill as a playwright and poet, and continues to resonate with audiences and scholars as a timeless reflection on the nature of evil and its origins in society.